The 2026 NFL draft is fast approaching, and the buzz is intense. With just three weeks to go (April 23-25), the latest intel from draft analysts Matt Miller and Field Yates reveals intriguing insights into the top prospects and potential trades. The focus is on Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, who impressed at his pro day workout, silencing injury concerns. McCoy's performance, including a 4.38 40-yard dash and impressive vertical and broad jump, has solidified his status as a top-15 prospect, with the Giants, Commanders, Saints, Chiefs, Bengals, and Cowboys as potential landing spots. The race for the top cornerback spot is on, with McCoy and LSU's Mansoor Delane both in the running.
Moving on to quarterbacks, the class is stacked, but the third-best prospect is a topic of debate. Miller and Yates offer differing opinions, with Miller favoring Garrett Nussmeier of LSU for his accuracy and high ball velocity, while Yates leans towards Carson Beck of Miami for his natural throwing ability and experience. Nussmeier's health concerns and impressive 2024 season make him a strong contender, while Beck's overall acumen and size make him a top pick.
Indiana's pro day showcased wide receiver Elijah Sarratt, whose contested catch ability and chemistry with Mendoza solidified his top-100 pick potential. Meanwhile, cornerback D'Angelo Ponds stood out with a 4.31 40-yard dash, solidifying his status as the best nickelback in the class. The Buffalo Bills are expected to trade down in Round 1, while the Seattle Seahawks are a potential partner for a trade-up.
The draft also features a strong class of edge rushers, with five or six likely to be selected in the first round. Miller and Yates identify Reese, Bailey, Bain Jr., Faulk, Mesidor, and Howell as locks, while also considering the potential of R Mason Thomas, Zion Young, and T.J. Parker. The offensive tackle class is deep, with six or seven potential first-round picks, including Francis Mauigoa, Spencer Fano, Monroe Freeling, Kadyn Proctor, Caleb Lomu, Blake Miller, and Max Iheanachor.
Wide receiver Makai Lemon, Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, and Omar Cooper Jr. are expected to be selected in the first five picks, with Texas A&M's KC Concepcion as a strong candidate for the final spot. Arizona State receiver Jordyn Tyson is trending downward due to a hamstring injury and lack of predraft workouts. The center position is deep, with Texas A&M's Trey Zuhn III as a strong Day 3 prospect, while South Carolina's Nick Barrett is a run-stopping defensive tackle with Day 3 potential.
